How To Make Brie Cheese At Home Guided Recipe Curd Nerd

Instructions

1. Find a clean, well-ventilated area in your kitchen to work in. Ensure all equipment and utensils are thoroughly sanitized to prevent any unwanted bacteria from contaminating your cheese.

2. Pour the 2 gallons of whole milk into a large stainless-steel pot. Heat the milk slowly over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.

3. Once the milk reaches 86°F (30°C), sprinkle the Mesophilic starter culture and Penicillium candidum culture on the surface. Let them rehydrate for a few minutes, then gently stir them into the milk using an up-and-down motion. If using pasteurized milk, add the liquid calcium chloride at this stage.

4. Maintaining the temperature at 86°F (30°C), add the liquid vegetarian rennet to the milk. Stir gently for 30 seconds. Cover the pot and let the milk sit undisturbed for about one hour, or until you achieve a clean break.

5. Once a clean break is achieved, cut the curds into 1/2-inch cubes. Make both vertical and horizontal cuts with a long knife. Let the curds rest for 5 minutes.

6. Heat the curds gently to 102°F (39°C) over the course of 30 minutes, stirring slowly to prevent the curds from matting. Maintain this temperature for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

7. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the curds into a cheesecloth-lined colander. Let the curds drain for 30 minutes, gently stirring them every 10 minutes to facilitate whey drainage.

8. Place the drained curds into a Brie mold, smoothing the surface with clean hands. Cover the cheese with a cloth and press it at a low pressure for 3 hours, flipping the cheese halfway through.

9. Remove the cheese from the mold and rub cheese salt on the surface. Place the cheese on a mat in a cheese cave or cellar at 50-54°F (10-12°C) with 85-95% humidity. Let the cheese ripen for 4-6 weeks, turning it every few days to ensure even ripening.

10. Once your Brie has developed a white, bloomy rind and a creamy interior, it's ready to be enjoyed. Serve it with crusty bread, fresh fruit, or drizzled with honey for a delicious cheese platter.